The youth at Oshakati on Friday gathered at the town’s Independence Stadium to commemorate the annual International Youth Day.

The day started with a street parade from the Ministry of Sport, Youth and National Service (MSYNS) office to the Independence Stadium.

In a speech read on his behalf, Oshana Region Governor Elia Irimari, said as Africa, Namibia embraces the Agenda 2063, Africa's blueprint to achieving inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development.

“We want the youth to champion, be in the forefront, and realise this vision so that in unison they can create a better future for the people.

Therefore, the government remains committed to empowering the youth, and integrating the youth within mainstream economy,” he said.

He further said a sustainable future is possible, and it is crucial to mobilise the young generation to forge a revitalised global partnership towards a common goal.

Speaking at the same occasion MSYNS Executive Director Erastus Haitengela said the International Youth Day offers a platform to honour the qualities of youth and the potential they hold towards developing Namibia and the world while acknowledging the challenges they face.

“Many young people contribute towards community development, protecting the environment and volunteering in various social projects,” he said.

He added that the MSYNS is playing its part by ensuring that the youth are included in socio-economic development by implementing the National Youth Policy.

The International Youth Day is held annually on 12 August, but the commemoration in Namibia was postponed, due to the busy schedule of the MSYNS.

This year’s commemoration was held under the theme 'Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World'.

Source: The Namibian Press Agency